How-to Guide for Buying Sunglasses

Sure, sunglasses might add the final touches to your chic ensemble, but the real reason to purchase your shades is to protect your eyes from the sun. Not only does glare from the sun make it difficult to see, but the UV rays it reflects can cause permanent damage to your eyes and vision. You want to make sure your sunglasses offer optimal protection, fit, comfort and of course, the best possible vision. Here are some things to consider when purchasing your next pair.

UV Protection

There are two types of UV radiation, UVA and UVB. UVA rays are less intense yet more prevalent than UVB rays, making up 95% of the UV radiation that reaches the surface of the Earth. They have been linked to skin cancer, aging and the development of cataracts. UVB rays are very dangerous to the eyes and are the primary cause of sunburns and cancer. While they are dangerous year round, these rays are more intense during the summer months, especially mid-day between around ten in the morning and four in the afternoon. UVB rays also reflect off of snow, water, sand and concrete.

The damage caused by UV rays is irreversible and cumulative, building up over a long period of time. This is why it is important to start wearing sunglasses when you are young (also because your eyes are more sensitive at a younger age). You want to make sure your sunglasses block out 100% of UV rays. This is the most important factor to consider when purchasing your sunglasses.

Additionally, in certain circumstances of intense UV exposure, a condition called keratitis can occur, which is essentially a sunburn on the eye. Symptoms often occur hours after sun exposure and can include temporary vision loss and severe pain.

Sunglass Lens Options

Once you are certain your sunglass lenses have the requisite UV protection, you can begin to consider other lens possibilities. Here are some other lens options to consider:

Polarized Lenses:

Reduce glare from light reflecting off glass, water, snow, sand or pavement. You should consider polarized lenses if you participate in water or snow sports such as fishing, boating or skiing as the water and snow can create a strong glare. They are also great for comfort while driving by reducing glare and to enhance vision when on the road.

Tinted Lenses:

Certain lens tints enable you to see better or more comfortably under certain circumstances but you have to be careful. Lens tints can distort or reduce vision and some can even harm your vision by increasing your pupil size which leads to an increase of UV radiation penetrating the eye. Look for lenses with a medium tint that keep your eyes comfortable and do not have a negative impact on your vision. Your optometrists’ office can often make specific tint recommendations depending on your lifestyle or particularly activities (ex. golfing vs fishing) and the health of your eyes (for example, cataracts tend to cause more glare).

Photochromic Lenses:

Automatically darken when exposed to UV light. Photochromic lenses are a great option for individuals that wear prescription eyeglasses: one pair can serve you both indoors and outdoors. As soon as you step outside, the lenses will darken, and they’ll reverse when you go back indoors.

Lens Materials

There are also a few options when it comes to lens materials, such as plastics - including polycarbonate or acetate; trivex - which is a polymer material; or glass. The type of lens will determine the durability, clarity of vision and price of your lenses, so you should consider the factors that are most important for you and try out a few options to see how they feel.

Sunwear Frames

Frame Size

The size of your sunglass frame is important for both comfort and protection. Your frames should fit according to your face size and provide ample coverage for your eyes. When you try on your frames, make sure they cover your eyes and feel comfortable around the bridge and temples. Also check that they don’t slip off when you move your head down toward the floor.

Frame Materials

Frames can be manufactured from a number of materials and, these days, frame companies are constantly innovating to come up with new and improved options. These materials vary in strength, flexibility, weight, comfort and price. You need to choose a frame material that is comfortable, safe, and functional and that suits your lifestyle and your fashion style.

Making the Purchase

When purchasing sunglasses, keep in mind that your vision insurance may help to cover the costs when purchased at an optometry office rather than at a sports or recreation store. Check with your insurance and your local optical to find out about any discounts or coverage. Another advantage of purchasing from an optometrist’s optical is that the optician can help you to find the perfect pair to suit your eye and vision needs, as well as your lifestyle and fashion preferences.

The good news about choosing the right pair of sunglasses is that there are ample brands, colors, styles and materials to choose from. So when it comes to your shades, don’t settle for less than optimal protection, fit and comfort for your eyes.

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Testimonials

"Been with TSO for a couple of years now and Love every Visit I have had there with my kids."
--Laura V.

"Good place. they are efficient and quick. The exam took no time at all, and neither was today's visit when I got my glasses. They adjusted them quickly and they were ready earlier than we expected.They called in the morning to tell me they were ready. I like this place a lot."
--Wendy K.

"I have been a long time patient of Dr. Doug Clark and highly recommend him. Dr. Clark provides a thorough and precise eye exam using the state of the art equipment. His expertise has helped me stay in contacts, which I love wearing.
His store offers a wide variety of frames and his stylists are very knowledgeable which is a great help when picking out the right frame and lenses.
I have referred him and his staff to my friends and acquaintances and they are never disappointed. "
--Debbie G

"Dr. Clark is interested in me both as a person and a patient. He has been consistent, thorough and has taken the time to learn about my specific eye care problems. He has got a great sense of humor and genuinely loves his job.
Besides being a joy to work with, the folks at TSO have helped me with the difficult decision of purchasing eyeglasses. They have an extensive inventory and my glasses are not just incredibly fashionable, they were very reasonably priced.
I highly recommend TSO at Central Plaza to anyone looking for an experienced, professional and caring eye doctor. Thank you for all you do."
--Caroline B

We are excited to say that TSO Capital Plaza is now open for routine eye care! Patients can be seen by appointment only, Monday thru Friday from 9:00AM-5:00PM. Our Saturday schedule will resume within the next few weeks. Please call (512) 452-5735 to schedule your appointment with us. We look forward to seeing you again!

With that being said, we will continue to take every precaution to ensure the safety of our patients, our staff, and our community. You should continue to expect limited entry into the office and very limited volume inside our office in order to maintain social distancing. Additionally, COVID screenings at the door will continue to take place, and safety and rigorous cleaning protocol will be in place. All staff will continue to wear masks (in addition to gloves and goggles as needed) and we ask that all patients come in for their examinations, adjustments, and glasses and contact lens dispenses wearing a mask or face covering as well. Further guidance will be given upon making your appointments.

We thank you for your patience and cooperation with our team during this time. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates. We are grateful for our patients, and we thank you for supporting our small business during this time. We hope you are staying safe.

Take care,

Your local family at TSO Capital Plaza and Drs. Amin, Clark, Nguyen and Weeden